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Du Cheng focused intently on the warm current emerging from his backside, feeling its gentle, thread-like presence. Although thin as silk, the energy was surprisingly responsive.
With a mere thought, the energy swiftly traveled from his rear, coursing through his chest and abdomen before reaching his right hand—the same hand that had masterfully picked countless locks and pockets in his previous life.
Suddenly, Du Cheng felt an extraordinary surge of strength in his right hand. With curiosity, he punched the nearby stone wall.
With a muffled "thump," the solid wall gained a clear, inch-deep imprint of his fist.
“Interesting!” Excited, Du Cheng directed the energy to his index and middle fingers, swiftly slicing them through the air in front of him.
In an instant, he effortlessly trapped a buzzing fly between his fingertips.
“Incredible!” Du Cheng laughed in amazement. “If I had this skill for pickpocketing, I'd be unstoppable!”
Although faint, the Lotus Qi significantly enhanced his speed and strength.
Satisfied and cautious, Du Cheng carefully erased the marks he'd made on the wall. As he dressed, he suddenly remembered the heavy artifact—the third-level Horned Warhammer—still tucked inside his pocket.
A thought struck him: Could this Lotus Qi, a mystical energy from a superior cultivation art, possibly activate the warhammer, just like battle qi?
With anticipation, Du Cheng took out the metallic orb and carefully infused it with Lotus Qi. This time, the artifact effortlessly responded, transforming into the golden Horned Warhammer, surprisingly weightless in his grip.
A brilliant green light shimmered along the hammer's handle, traveling swiftly into his hand, and a solemn, ancient voice resonated clearly in his mind:
“In the name of Aluman, you are now my master. I am the Horned Warhammer of Aluman the Storm God. I grant you the power of wind born from plants—speed, agility, and overwhelming strength. Use me when you require my aid…”
The artifact meticulously explained its abilities, guiding Du Cheng through the process. Following its instructions, he withdrew the Lotus Qi, reverting the warhammer to its orb form. This time, instead of lock-picking, Du Cheng expertly channeled Qi into the orb’s four sockets, and it effortlessly transformed back into the warhammer.
As he swung the light hammer, immense power surged through it, generating powerful gusts with each movement.
At last, he had not only "forced" the artifact's allegiance but also fully won over its essence!
Du Cheng chuckled, now curious about his new strength level.
“I hope Big Brother hasn't left for another party yet!”
Achieving the first stage of the Lotus Sutra and acquiring the Horned Warhammer greatly boosted Du Cheng’s spirits. Feeling energized, he returned home swiftly, effortlessly sustained by the endlessly flowing Lotus Qi.
However, upon arriving home, disappointment struck—Steve had already left for another noble gathering. Unable to inquire about battle-god levels from his aloof father or disdainful second brother, Du Cheng shelved his questions for later and returned to his tower quarters.
For the next several days, Du Cheng frequently visited the impoverished southern districts, performing good deeds. His Lotus Qi strengthened steadily, and his second lotus bud began its journey toward blooming. For the first time, the common folk saw a noble genuinely willing to help them. Soon, the city’s infamous “fool of Saint-Cain” began to be known affectionately as "the Virtue of Saint John."
Concurrently, Du Cheng struggled to learn more about the Battle-God world—beginning with literacy, as the original Francis had been practically illiterate.
Finally, on the eve of the continent’s most important festival—the Day of Divine Peace—Steve, who had recently been engrossed in social events, abruptly burst into Du Cheng’s room, eagerly pulling him outside.
"Brother, what's the rush? I actually have something to ask you!" Du Cheng protested.
Steve hurriedly tossed him formal attire, impatiently replying, "Forgot already? I'm bringing you to your first noble gathering tonight!" He fussed over Du Cheng’s appearance, joking, "According to noble custom, on the eve of Divine Peace, Princess Yuna hosts a banquet. Tonight, you might finally lose your virginity!"
Du Cheng forced a bitter smile. He was, after all, cultivating a peculiar celibate art.
"Brother, I’d rather not go," Du Cheng sighed.
Steve adamantly refused, shaking his head vigorously. "No way! I've already promised several ladies to introduce my suddenly-clever brother. Refusing now would embarrass me—and fewer ladies would flirt with me! Can you bear that responsibility?"
Du Cheng sighed again, resigned.
Even old Foye chimed in with delight, "Master Francis, as a noble descendant, you'll have to attend eventually. Let this old man see you find a lovely bride!"
Moved by Foye’s sincerity, Du Cheng reluctantly nodded, "Alright, I'll go. But first, tell me about each battle-god rank’s characteristics."
Steve shook his head dramatically, "Not tonight, dear brother! Your handsome elder sibling is about to be wooed by countless beauties—don’t spoil this sacred moment with violence!"
Helplessly, Du Cheng complied.
Traveling in a luxurious carriage emblazoned with Sigrew’s emblem, Steve escorted Du Cheng to Princess Yuna’s grand villa, located in Saint John City's center. The splendid, illuminated cathedral-like building stood impressively beneath the night sky.
"Remember this date—Year 1277, Ninth Month, Twelfth Day of the Fallen God calendar—today you'll meet more beauties than in your entire fifteen years!" Steve enthusiastically announced, pushing open a crescent-shaped pink door into a spacious crystal-walled hall bustling with youthful nobles.
“Ladies and gentlemen!” Steve theatrically proclaimed, “May I introduce Francis, esteemed descendant of the Holy Radiance Battle-God Sigrew!”
Every gaze fixated on Du Cheng—some amazed, others skeptical, and many burning with envy. Despite his slender build, Francis’s striking golden hair, captivating blue eyes, and elegant white attire instantly charmed the young noblewomen.
As Steve guided Du Cheng into the hall, he whispered seriously, "Francis, you’re no longer our family’s disgrace. Pay attention to everyone here—they may become your friends or foes."
Du Cheng smiled appreciatively, acknowledging Steve's hidden intent: his thoughtful brother was strategically introducing him to the empire’s upper echelons.
“I promise not to embarrass our family,” Du Cheng whispered confidently.
Approaching the elegant Princess Yuna herself, dressed impeccably in pink and adorned with dazzling jewels, Steve introduced Du Cheng courteously.
"Francis, allow me to apologize for past misunderstandings," Yuna began graciously, extending her delicate hand. "Your wisdom shines clearly. The rumors are evidently false—you’re no disgrace, but the Virtue of Saint John."
Shocked whispers filled the hall. Did the Empire’s most stunning princess genuinely request a kiss from the notorious Francis?
Smiling calmly, Du Cheng politely declined, "Princess, I never kiss anyone’s hand."
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